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Gathered faithfully to love and serve God and all others. |
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Faith's Saturday Update
March 4, 2023
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Sunday, March 5, 2023
Second Sunday of Lent
Worship Services at 8:00 & 10:15 a.m.
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Readings and Psalm
Genesis 12:1-4a
The blessing of God upon Abram
Psalm 121
I lift up my eyes to the hills; my help comes from the Lord
(Ps. 121:1-2)
Romans 4:1-5, 13-17
The promise to those who share Abraham's faith
John 3:1-17
The mission of Christ: To save the world
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Click the box below to view Congregational Council minutes from the February 16 meeting. |
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Ash Wednesday Sermon Reading |
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Attached is the reading Rev. Marianne Powrie used in Ash Wednesday's sermon.
Several people asked for copies so we are sharing it with everyone.
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Year End Giving Statements for 2022 were emailed to those with opted-in valid email addresses on file. Please check your junk or spam if you did not receive it.
Paper copies will be provided on request. Sign up for a paper copy in the narthex or contact Patty McKee, 941-921-3709, pattymckee15@gmail.com or FinancialSecretary@faithlutheransrq.com.
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Please Consider Donating Altar Flowers |
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Please consider donating altar flowers in honor of a special occasion, in memory of a loved one, or to glorify God.
The cost is $30 for one vase or $60 for two vases. Please note that we have two vases each week. This means that each week we can have either one donor for both vases, or two donors for one vase per donor.
If both vases for the week have already been sponsored, please choose an alternate week for your donation. The altar flowers donation board in the fellowship hall is updated weekly. Please check to see if your desired date is available.
The next available Sundays are April 30; and May 14 and 21. Both vases are available for these dates.
When you purchase altar flowers, your name and dedication will be published in the bulletin on your selected Sunday. After the 10:15 a.m. service, the flowers are yours to keep or donate to a person or place of your choice.
To make a dedication:
- At church, complete an Altar Flowers envelope with your payment, and place it in the offering plate. Indicate your wish to keep or donate the flowers on the donation board in the fellowship hall.
- By note or phone, include a note in the envelope with your donation or call the church office.
- By mail, send payment with a note indicating your desired date and dedication, and if you want to keep the flowers or donate them.
Please make checks payable to Faith Lutheran Church and indicate ‘altar flowers’ in the memo line.
Thank you for adding beauty to Faith Lutheran’s altar!
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Please leave the liner pots at church. The florist picks these up every week to reuse them. If you have any of these, please return them. We greatly appreciate it.
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THE SEASON OF LENT & EASTER
Join us for Midweek & Holy Week services
Wednesdays: March 1, March 8, March 15, March 22, and March 29
12 p.m. Lenten Prayer Service with Communion
6 p.m. Soup & Sandwich Supper
7 p.m. Holden Evening Prayer Service
Sign up to bring soup or sandwiches on one or more Wednesdays!
The signup sheet is in the narthex.
HOLY WEEK SERVICES
April 2 – Palm Sunday:
8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Worship Services
April 6 – Maundy Thursday:
7 p.m. Eucharist Service
April 7 – Good Friday:
2 p.m. Stations of the Cross Service
7 p.m. Tenebrae Service
April 8 – Easter Vigil Part One:
7:30 p.m. Meet at the Fire in the Parking Lot
April 9 – Easter:
7 a.m. Easter Vigil Part Two in Memorial Garden
10:15 a.m. Worship Service in the Sanctuary
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Lent Soup & Sandwich Supper |
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Sign up to bring soup or sandwiches on one or more Wednesdays! The signup sheet is on the table is in the narthex.
Lent Soup & Sandwich Supper will be offered at 6 p.m. Wednesdays March 1, March 8, March 15, March 22 and March 29 followed by Holden Evening Prayer at 7 p.m.
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Please join the planning session for our new quilt group at 9 a.m. Friday, March 10, at the church.
We will discuss how often we will meet and what time to begin and end our sessions. This group is for anyone who would either (1) like to learn to quilt or (2) use their sewing/quilting skills to make quilts. We will cut, sew, quilt and bind each quilt.
If you do not know how to quilt, someone will be available to teach the skills you need.
If you have questions,contact Jane Sanks (941) 923-4240 or (941) 726-2849.
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Tech Savvy? We need your gifts! |
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We are looking to train several additional operators to join our team to run the live stream for our 10:15 a.m. service.
If you are comfortable with technology, we would welcome you to join us in providing this vital ministry.
Interested? Just curious? Contact Marianne Powrie, or leave a message with Cate in the office.
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Adult Forum - Next Meeting is March 5 |
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Adult Forum meets again Sunday, March 5, for a new five-week study beginning with Volume 5 “The Early Church” of the “That the World May Know” video series. We will meet in the conference room between the two morning worship services, 9:10–9:50 a.m.
Pack your bags! We’re going on a journey with Ray Vander Laan, a Biblical scholar. A quest to uncover Scripture and its meaning across history. Filmed on location in Israel and throughout the Middle East, the Faith Lessons Digital series is an adventure in biblical learning. You will discover why Jesus turned the world upside down with his compelling call to follow Him. The insights you gain will transform your reading of the Gospels and inspire a deeper faith commitment.
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It's time for Faith to SOAP UP! Mary Circle asks members to please bring in the necessary items to create personal care kits for Lutheran World Relief. Please donate bath-size soap, adult-size toothbrushes, metal nail clippers or combs. The goal is to create 65 kits. |
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Donations needed for the Food Pantry:
· 1 lb. packages of pasta
· 1 lb. packages of rice
Healthier varieties like whole wheat, veggie, and gluten-free are appreciated.
Help us spread the word that our Food Pantry distribution has officially begun! We serve clients 5-6:30 p.m. Thursdays.
Thank you to all generous donors and volunteers who graciously give time, talents and treasures. We appreciate you so very much!
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During Lent, confirmation students are encouraged to attend Wednesday evening soup-and-sandwich suppers and Holden Evening Prayer.
Those fellowship and worship opportunities are part of the comprehensive confirmation program, which involves more than just class time. It seeks to provide experiences and opportunities in which the individual can grow in faith as a Christian (i.e., worship, relationships with peers and mentors, small group experiences, and ministry opportunities).
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Men of Faith
Breakfast at Skillets
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Join us for a hearty breakfast, prayer, and fellowship at 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 7, at Skillets, 8635 S. Tamiami Trail.
All men are welcome! Please RSVP by emailing Pastor Eric at pastor@faithlutheransrq.com or call the church office.
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G.I.F.T.S.
(Growing In Faith Through Scripture)
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G.I.F.T.S. (Growing In Faith Through Scripture) will continue studying "Be Still and Know" by Deb Burma at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, in the conference room. We look forward to continuing our exploration of Psalm 46.
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Join Faith’s Bereavement Group at 1 p.m. Wednesdays in the chapel.
If you or a friend can use some help bearing the burden of grief, this group is for you. There is strength in community. Help spread the word of hope.
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Readers Club meets at 2 p.m. on the last Monday of the month, March 27, in the church library.
For more information, contact Kathy Schilio, schilmo@yahoo.com. Please join! All are welcome!
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Donations to Pastor's Discretionary Fund Enable Emergency Assistance |
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Pastor Eric often engages in conversation with members of the congregation or community about specific needs and aid they might require. The Pastor's Discretionary Fund provides him the means to help financially, when necessary.
If you are able, please consider a donation so vulnerable members of our community can continue to receive emergency assistance.
Thank you for the strong congregational response thus far!
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Looking for a time to pray with members of our Faith family? Join us at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays in the chapel. We will pray for ourselves, our loved ones, those in need, our church community, the larger community that we serve, our nation and the world. We will conclude with Holy Communion.
Bring your concerns and your desire to connect with our loving heavenly Father. Can’t attend in person? Please join us via Zoom.
Join Zoom Meeting: Meeting ID: 871 4720 3661, Passcode: 041291
NOTE: If you need the sacrament brought to your house, please let us know or take consecrated elements home with you on Sunday if you are in town.
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Joan's Soup Freezer
Consider Sharing Soup,
and Take Soup When Needs Arise
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The soup fridge is filling up! Please consider making a donation or simply taking one of the delicious soups found in the fridge labeled Joan’s Soup in the kitchen. If making a contribution, please label with the type of soup and when it was made. Thanks so much! |
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Enjoy Fellowship During the Women's Spring Tea |
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All women of Faith are invited to gather 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, March 11, in the fellowship hall for a spring tea and luncheon, “What A Friend We Have In Jesus." We will have uplifting discussions regarding our friendship with Jesus, and friendships with women of Faith.
If you desire to meet new friends in a unique way, without a big-time commitment, we would love to have you register for our event. We ask that each participant bring her favorite teacup and saucer or coffee mug. Hopefully there will be stories to share about the special cups. We also ask you to bring non-perishable food items for our food bank.
To register, please contact Gwen Schell, or the church office no later than Sunday, March 5.
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A Thank You From Pastor Larry |
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The Adult Bible Study class exploring six of the miracles of Jesus has ended, and we look forward, following Easter, to beginning a study of six of Jesus's parables.
My heart is truly grateful, not only for the opportunity to be one of the leaders of Bible study at Faith, but to learn along with a loving bunch of people, and to enjoy this way of being church together. Thank you for your many kind words and the gits you have shared with me. I'm so very blessed.
Again, beginning April 19, we intend to apply textbook, lecture and discussion as we delve into a few of the stories of Jesus. Will you consider joining us as we seek in this way to grow in our faith together? Hope to see you around the table.
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3/4 Pray that the invasion of Ukraine will end and that Russia will halt the violence that stands in the way of peace, reconciliation, recovery and healing. Pray especially for those who suffer most from the unrelenting misery, violence and destruction.
3/5 Ask God for the curiosity, boldness and humility of Nicodemus, a Pharisee who sought to understand Jesus, the ways of God and the work of the Spirit.
3/6 Remember in prayer people and communities recovering from the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. Ask God to sustain their hope, ease their grief and give them the resources they need for relief and rebuilding, especially in remote areas.
3/7 Give thanks for siblings in Christ, throughout history and in the present, who proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ and incite our faith in God’s promise of love and forgiveness.
3/8 International Women’s Day On this day we join our neighbors and siblings in Christ around the world in praying for the total inclusion, equity and advancement — social, economic and political — of women and girls everywhere. Give thanks for the work we do together through the ELCA International Women Leaders program, the Justice for Women program and ELCA World Hunger.
3/9 Pray that when we see or use the symbol of the cross, we will remember the sacrifice made by the Son of God — Jesus Christ — for the sake of the world, to free us from the constraints of human weakness, fear and death.
3/10 “I lift up my eyes to the hills — from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2). Give thanks that God is mindful of our struggles and uncertainties and provides care, support and counsel through the people around us, including strangers. In turn, ask God to work through us so that we will be alert, empathetic and responsive to the needs of our neighbors.
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Please remember in your prayers this week:
Jeff & Nancy Arntsen
Anna Bancroft, 6 years old, friend of Alyene Weave
Chuck Banta
Family & Friends of Kevin Beard
Sean Brett, son of Alyene Weaver
Tommy Bright
Charles Budreau
Dee Burlingame
Michael O. Cannon, father of Kay Cannon
Cheryl Cook
Joan Cotton
Eloise Dettmer
Family & Friends of Megan Fairlie
Family & Friends of Marlene Falconer
Elizabeth Farmer
Family & Friends of Stanforth Forbes
John Gallo, friend of April Shettler
Andrea Gamboa
Paula Haas, friend of Eloise Dettmer
Elaine Graham
Alyssa Hansen, cousin of Lisa Olsen
Jeff Hansen, nephew of Joan Searles
Christiana Holmes
Kevin Hooks, son-in-law of Anita and Jon Wooton
Mary Janice Holt
Jesus & Rita Jimenez
Paul & Debby Maresch
Kathryn McLaughlin
Judi Melander
Kristin Mohammed
Jeremy & Yvonne Mullins
Family & Friends of Dennis Pappalardo
Virginia Link-Pease, wife of James Pease
Doris Anne Prieur-Lucia
Fritz Rappold
Family & Friends of Deacon Sue Rice
Gabriel Rockwell
Beverly & Floyd Ryder
Family & Friends of Dick Sanks
Ken Schell, brother of Mike (Gwen) Schell
Rev. John Spittal
Family and Friends of Dieter Smirnow
Cathy Stubenvoll
Michelle Terrell, niece of Kay Cannon
Colette Thornbloom
Marlene Wiest
Jon Wooton
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03/01 Carol and Al Campbell
03/04 Sandra and Kenneth Brinker
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03/03 John White
03/04 Eloise Dettmer
03/05 Virginia Chauncey
03/05 Lars Olsen
03/07 Sharry Morrison
03/08 Nancy Dandino
03/08 Andreas Porwol
03/10 Linda Burton
03/10 Ann Wright
03/11 Elaine Donham
03/13 Patty McKee
03/13 Joan Zabor
03/14 Ronald Kovilaritch
03/15 Rita Jimenez
03/16 Denise Kirkeeng
03/16 Aaron Puebla
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03/16 Jeffrey Ragan
03/16 Nancy Wilborn
03/17 Jerry Kolschowsky
03/18 Kathy Schilio
03/20 Kay Bruning
03/20 Jocelyn Rans
03/22 Janet Petersen
03/23 Christine Dennis
03/24 Mary Schuh
03/26 Donna Pappalardo
03/26 Marlene Radesk
03/27 David Dawson
03/27 Wendy Hallmann
03/31 Ray Giannini
03/31 Alfred hirsch
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Pastor: Rev. Eric Olaf Olsen
Assistant Pastor: Rev. Larry Wright
Director of Music/Organist: David V. Patrick
Lead Cantor/Music Librarian: Tom Tryon
Artist in Residence: Dr. Joseph Holt
Church Office Administrator: Cate Teague
Weekly office hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday
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Mission – Gathered faithfully to love and serve God and all others.
Values – Mutual Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Service, Forgiveness, Commitment, Perseverance, Faithfulness, Compassion, Flexibility
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CLICK HERE to view the current Constitution of Faith Lutheran Church.
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